Interior house painting is one of the most effective ways to refresh your home, improve aesthetics, and increase property value. Whether you’re repainting a single room or your entire house, understanding typical costs helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
While prices can vary based on several factors, this guide breaks down what most homeowners can expect to pay, what affects pricing, and how to get the best value from your painting project.
Average Cost of Interior House Painting
Most professional interior painting projects are priced either per square foot or per room.
Cost Per Square Foot
- $1.80 – $3.00 per sq ft for standard wall painting
- $3.00 – $4.50+ per sq ft when including ceilings, trim, and doors
These figures typically include labour, basic prep, primer, and two coats of paint.
Note: Square footage usually refers to paintable wall surface area, which can be two to four times greater than your floor area.
Typical Whole-Home Painting Costs
| Home Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / Small Condo | $800 – $1,200 |
| 1-Bedroom Home | $1,200 – $2,800 |
| 2-Bedroom Home | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Townhouse (1,400–1,800 sq ft) | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Detached Home (2,000–2,500 sq ft) | $4,500 – $12,000 |
| Large Home (3,500+ sq ft) | $7,000 – $18,000+ |
These ranges assume professional-quality materials and standard interior surfaces.
Room-By-Room Painting Costs
If you’re painting individual spaces, here are common price ranges:
- Bedroom: $450 – $900
- Living Room: $800 – $1,600
- Kitchen (walls only): $500 – $1,200
- Bathroom: $300 – $600
- Hallways & Staircases: $1,000 – $2,500
Prices increase when ceilings, trim, or doors are added.
What Impacts Interior Painting Cost?
1. Surface Preparation
Walls requiring patching, sanding, caulking, or priming increase labour time and cost.
2. Paint Quality
Premium paints cost more but offer:
- Better coverage
- Longer lifespan
- Easier cleaning
- Improved color retention
Higher-quality paint often reduces the number of coats required.
3. Scope of Work
Painting only walls costs less than including:
- Ceilings
- Baseboards and trim
- Doors and frames
- Closets
The more surfaces involved, the higher the price.
4. Ceiling Height & Complexity
High ceilings, vaulted areas, crown moulding, and intricate trim increase labour time.
5. Number of Colors
Multiple colors or accent walls require additional cutting-in and masking, which raises costs.
What’s Usually Included in a Professional Paint Job?
Most reputable painters include:
- Furniture and floor protection
- Minor drywall repairs
- Sanding and surface prep
- Primer (where needed)
- Two coats of paint
- Cleanup and disposal
Always confirm what’s included in writing.
How to Save Money on Interior Painting
- Paint multiple rooms at once
- Choose standard colors instead of custom mixes
- Handle small repairs ahead of time
- Keep furniture moved and rooms clear
- Compare at least three detailed quotes
Is Professional Interior Painting Worth It?
For most homeowners, yes.
Professional painters deliver:
- Cleaner lines and smoother finishes
- Faster completion times
- Proper surface preparation
- Long-lasting results
DIY painting may appear cheaper upfront, but mistakes, uneven coverage, and poor prep can lead to higher long-term costs.
Final Thoughts
Interior house painting costs vary widely based on size, condition, and scope, but most full-home projects fall between $3,000 and $12,000+. Smaller projects or single rooms typically range from $300 to $1,500.
Investing in professional interior house painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s look, comfort, and resale value.